0 The Beetle

          In 1938 what would eventually be over 21 million air-cooled, rear engine affordable cars for the people rolled off an assembly line in Germany. Designed by Ferdinand Porsche, the Volkswagen Beetle has, over the years, become one the true iconic machines throughout the world. That is because of its endearing shape. Germans dubbed it Kafer which means beetle because of the rounded body. The name has become legend.

          From its inception the car was designed to be small, yet somewhat comfortable and very, very affordable. And the car was amazingly simple. With a four cylinder boxer motor, initially pushing only 25 horse power, mounted in such a light vehicle, the car could easily cruise at 60 miles per hour while getting superior gas mileage.

          My first car was a 1968 Beetle. Literally, a screwdriver and a wrench and just about any mechanical detail could be handled.

          At the recent 27th Annual Volkswagen and Porsche Reunion there were so many Beetles that in places it looked like the world's largest Beetle dealership. Some were in pristine, like new condition while others had seen better days. Still, this car has been a mainstay for many people over many years and continues to roll down highways in every part of the world.